Yes, the Continental comes with a heavy, varmint barrel. It goes .787 at the muzzle, has an 11* target crown, is 26", and free floated all the way to the reciever. I too wanted the .243 over .308 after seeing some "1 Hole" 3 shot groups done with the synthetic model, but they are not being imported at this time. It is listed in the pamplets as well as the .222, I was told they (.243) are due to get here sometime this summer and no plans to import the .222. With how relase dates go in the firearms industry, I did not want to wait so I got the .308. At the time I ordered mine the distributers had .223, 22-250, .308, 25-06, .270, and 30-06. Some others listed may be her now. I'm very happy with my .308!